For the study, researchers surveyed 602 adults with eczema—an allergic disease that causes recurring episodes of itchy, red and very dry skin. Among the most significant findings:

Overall, people were most bothered by eczema's itch. More than half said it was their worst eczema symptom.

Excessive skin dryness, scaling, and red or inflamed skin were also troublesome, followed by skin pain and sleep problems.

For people with moderate or severe eczema, skin blisters or bumps, sleep disturbances, skin pain, sores, and oozing were most bothersome.

Eczema and emotional health

Many of the study participants said they were dissatisfied with their lives, compared to those without eczema. Even people with mild eczema said the disease disrupted their activities and social life. In fact, the study findings suggest that eczema may be harder to live with than other chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.